A leading political scientist is urging the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its leader, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, to reconsider their longstanding policy of non-cooperation with the Left Party (Die Linke) ahead of the 2026 state elections, a move critics say appears increasingly anachronistic and potentially detrimental to the CDU’s strategic positioning.
Speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Professor Karl-Rudolf Korte argued that the current declaration of incompatibility with Die Linke – historically a core tenet of CDU policy – is “outdated” and significantly at odds with current parliamentary practice at both the federal and state levels. He contends that the strict adherence to this principle is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and, consequently, counterproductive.
Korte suggests the CDU’s upcoming federal party conference in February presents a crucial opportunity. He advocates for a revision of the declaration’s language, proposing a more nuanced and “wiser” formulation. This shift, he insists, would represent a vital strategic preparation for the upcoming electoral cycle, allowing the CDU to acknowledge the Left’s demonstrated capacity for responsible governance.
However, Korte stressed that maintaining a firm barrier against the Alternative for Germany (AfD) remains paramount. This firewall, he emphasized, is essential for safeguarding the principles of the free and democratic basic order, representing a non-negotiable line for the CDU.
Despite current high polling figures for the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Korte expressed cautious optimism, believing that a mobilization of the political center still has the potential to prevent an AfD takeover. He cautioned against excessive anxiety surrounding the AfD’s electoral prospects, arguing that a sense of complacency within the centrist parties could inadvertently pave the way for the far-right party’s success.
Korte implores the centrist parties to actively champion European achievements and liberal values, effectively offering an attractive and compelling platform – “the party everyone wants”. He warned that inaction will only serve to empower the AfD, highlighting the critical responsibility resting on the shoulders of democratic parties to proactively demonstrate their relevance and appeal to voters.
